A Derby firm that makes lightweight carbon composite components has secured larger premises in the city that will pave the way for growth and new jobs.

Pentaxia has been given the keys to its new 70,000 sq ft base in Alfreton Road, which was formerly a composite manufacturing facility for Derby aero engine-maker Rolls-Royce.

Pentaxia first announced its intention to move from its current factory in Longbridge Lane, on Ascot Business Park, in June - but, at the time, it could not say where in the city as it was still finalising the deal to buy its new building.

Now, after securing the six-acre site, Pentaxia said it will immediately embark on a six-month programme to refurbish and upgrade the premises.

It will also be investing £1 million in new manufacturing equipment, which will double the firm’s existing production capability.

According to the firm, which was founded in 2008, the move will allow Pentaxia to add an extra 20 jobs in the future to its current workforce of 90 staff.

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Pentaxia is an advanced composites manufacturer. It produces components using carbon fibre which are both strong and lightweight.

The family-run firm has grown by more than 60% in 12 months due to a rapid increase in demand for lightweight, high-performance components from its blue-chip customers in the aerospace, automotive and motorsport industries.

Pentaxia hopes to move its staff into its new base early next year

In the past, it has supplied components to Formula One teams, including Mercedes-Benz.

In March, the firm announced it had secured a deal with Martin-Baker, a Middlesex-based company which designs and supplies aircraft ejector seats, to supply it with components. It was the biggest contract in the firm’s history.

“We have grown more than 60% in the past 12 months and, to maintain that kind of growth, we need a lot more space.

“It’s essential that we maintain the high quality and reliability that we’re known for, which results from completing every element of our work in-house and working very closely with our customers.

“Predictably, meeting quality standards and delivery dates is just what major multinational companies need from suppliers like us. The new site is three times the size of our existing facilities, which gives us space to expand effectively and dependably.”